Firefighter lost in swift water rescue (Raleigh County, WV)

NOTE: An offer from the IADRS.org to provide technical support or assistance in the recovery of the lost firefighter was extended to the Raleigh County (WV) EOC via e-mail and the Bradley Volunteer Fire Dept by telephone.

I join many in sending my deepest sympathy to the family members, friends and co-workers of the lost fire fighter. WBR2/DRI/IADRS

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A massive search is underway in Raleigh County for a missing Kanawha County volunteer firefighter swept away in floodwaters early Saturday morning.

It happened in the Beaver area when a fire department boat capsized during a swift water rescue attempt. MetroNews has learned the Kanawha County firefighter was in Raleigh County as part of a mutual aid agreement.

Governor Joe Manchin said during a tour of the flooded areas Saturday the firefighter was a member of the Glasgow Volunteer Fire Dept.

The firefighter was attempting to rescue three people in swollen Beaver Creek when he was swept away. A Blackhawk helicopter is being used in the search.